PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government on Friday decided to formulate a policy to promote mountain agriculture in the province.

In this regard, the chief minister’s secretariat has sent an official letter along with a concept paper to the agriculture department with directions to finalise the draft of the proposed KP Mountain Agriculture Policy, according to a statement.

The department has been directed to present the draft to the competent forum for approval within 45 days.

“The concept paper includes an executive summary and outlines key thematic areas such as agro-ecological zones, major crops, livestock, fisheries, and critical administrative challenges,” the statement said.

The paper also contains recommendations and strategic directions for shaping the policy framework, emphasising the unique characteristics of mountain agriculture, taking into account local terrain, soil, climate conditions, value chain development, and access to markets.

A special focus has also been placed on enhancing agricultural technology, research, and extension services in remote areas, which were considered vital components of the policy.

The concept paper highlights the significant potential for agriculture and livestock in the province’s hilly regions, stressing the need for an institutionalised approach to tap into this potential effectively.

“The role of women in the rural economy and the importance of community mobilisation have also been highlighted as essential to the policy’s success,” the statement said, adding among the key recommendations in the letter were establishment of a Mountain Agriculture Development Board and community seed banks, the revival of local cooperatives and relevant rural organisations, identification of water and soil conservation projects, training of at least 50 new extension agents, implementation of a multi-level marketing strategy, and development of a robust monitoring and evaluation system to ensure policy effectiveness.

Published in Dawn, April 19th, 2025